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The achievements of the past decades since the fall of the Berlin Wall such as the European integration or Germany’s sound economic performance are not be taken for granted. Its partners welcome a stronger German commitment in various fields. The political and public debate on Germany’s international responsibility is currently gaining momentum. KAS International Reports, proudly celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is an active part of this discussion.

by Gerhard Wahlers

Because of the opening of the border in the late summer of 1989, Hungary showed great humanity to the refugees from East Germany. Therefore, the “year of miracles” became a key moment in the bilateral relationship, when not only the Germans developed great sympathy for the Hungarian people. 25 years after the fall of the Iron Curtain shows good timing to look back on those moving events and to assess the relationship between the two countries.

by Bence Bauer, LL.M, András Hettyey

Impressions from Poland

Poland and Germany share a history of ups and downs. It took time, rapprochement and reconciliation to heal the wounds of the past and to do away with mutual resentments. Today, the majority of the Polish people clearly support the cooperation with their neighbors. In addition, both countries are considered to be a strong tandem at the European level. Aside from the overall harmony some disagreement does exist as well.

by Bartosz T. Wieliński

Regarding German development policy in Africa, the results are mixed. Although partner countries in Sub-Saharan Africa already receive more than 50 percent of German development assistance, critics claim that Germany would neglect this continent. In retrospect, it becomes clear that (West) German development cooperation had to find its role in view of international pressure and inner-German tensions.

by Peter Molt

An Opportunity to Assume “New Responsibility” in International Politics

The G7 is a powerful political network in the sphere of international relations. For more than three decades, the group of the most important industrialized countries has been coordinating itself in various areas. In June 2014, Germany has taken over the G7 presidency which raises the question of its international responsibility. What could the agenda of the German government look like in order to agree with its partners on political steps at the G7 summit next year?

by Daniela Haarhuis

The Challenges Presented by the Islamic Caliphate

At present, the international community has to deal with the cruelest terrorist organization, the Islamic State. Due to internal unrest, civil war and ethnic and religious conflicts this Islamist militia was able to gain ground. In this context, the Caliphate claims statehood. It looks like that Iraq and the international community face a long and tough fight.

by Dustin Dehez